Journalismiziko

SOUTH AFRICA CELEBRATES WOMEN’S DAY

As South Africa celebrates 20 years of democracy, the country also reached another milestone by celebrating the 60th anniversary of the woman charter.

The only surviving prominent leader of the 1956 woman’s march to The Union Buildings, Sophia de Bruyn, read out the eight aims of the woman’s charter as it celebrated its 60th anniversary. Both Women and men braved the scorching sun and came out in numbers to celebrate women at King Zwelithini Stadium in Umlazi Township. The event saw woman from across South Africa gather at the stadium to celebrate woman’s month.

Speaking at the event President of the ANC Woman’s League and Minister of Basic Education Angie Motshekga, said the fight for gender equality has not been won yet in this country but a lot has been done to ensure that women are taken seriously.
“As woman we are still fighting for our rights and we have come a long way. We are proud that 20 years of democracy have put our struggles on the agenda.”

Minister of Women in the Presidency, Susan Shabangu, who was the programme director at the event encouraged women to participate in the decision making process while Minister of Arts and Culture, Mr Nathi Mthethwa, urged woman to work hard.

The President of South Africa, Mr Jacob Zuma, was also in attendance as he also delivered his speech. Zuma emphasised the importance of women’s month. “This is an important day in the national calendar. It has been 60 years since the signing of the woman’s charter and it is not surprising that there is a day dedicated to woman in South Africa. Women have always played a critical role in this country and it is important to not forget this,” said Zuma.

People in attendance were wearing green and black gear to show their support for the woman’s league. Struggle songs were sang as the event started and as well as it came to an end.